Teens

Can Scoliosis Affect My Height?

Mild scoliosis usually doesn't affect someone's final height. But if a curve is big and not treated, it could mean a person doesn't end up as tall as he or she might have been.

That's one reason why it's a good idea to see a doctor if you notice signs of scoliosis. In addition to height problems, a person can have other, more serious complications from severe scoliosis if it's not treated. These can include lung and heart problems, arthritis of the spine, and long-term back pain.

So what are some signs of scoliosis? If one shoulder seems higher than the other or one hip looks higher than the other, see your doctor or nurse practitioner. The good news about scoliosis is that recognizing a problem and beginning treatment early on can help you avoid future problems.